Poetic justice. Last night’s outcome at the FIFA World Cup 2022 can be called nothing short of that. The little boy from Rosario, Argentina adds the final gem to his decorated crown as he enters the Galaxy of the most incredible souls to play the beautiful game. This cannot be written, this was manifested by the hopes and prayers of millions across the world. 

The excitement I had waiting to do the artwork for this issue is hard to explain. Though not an Argentinian, nor even on the same continent, the feelings that the state of Kerala, India goes through during the World Cup matches are even harder to explain. The love for the game dates back to Pele, Cruyff, and Maradona. Ever since the fever is high and intoxicating, and on nights the greatest players embrace the field it is magical. Such was this World Cup and the magician we prayed lifted the trophy– and lift he did in style and glory. 

In the weeks approaching, we had a style in mind to execute this cover artwork. I had a fair idea of the elements that needed to be in the mix. As we try to include NFT events in the major world events we had to accommodate some guest appearances from SBF, C and Trump.

The unexpected request was to feature Messi and Mbappe on the cover. I had never before created a portrait in vector style and this I knew would be quite the challenge given the deadline and how close it was to the Final match. I looked up for inspiration as there are plenty to be found of football players. I then came across Daniel Nyari who specialized in making footballer illustrations. They were absolutely great, but I didn’t like his Messi illustration, and nor had he done a Mbappe illustration. 

Daniel’s Messi was a calm and unrecognizable Messi. The Messi that took to the field in this World Cup was a different beast, “angry Messi”, in the words of Peter Drury. The thirst for the cup of life burned in his eyes every time he touched the ball. I wanted to show this new Messi that was born in Lusail. Hence I started to sculpt in a style I had never tried, to create the best portrait I will ever do in this lifetime. I was so happy with the result that I felt I had outdone Daniel in his own style. Maybe it was because it was Messi, and maybe this was part of destiny too. 

As I had mentioned we also had Kylian Mpabbe in case things went sideways. After a nerve-wracking 120 minutes and shootout, the winner was clear as the waters of the Parana river, and not so sadly we had to omit his appearance. I was able to play a part in the animation too and handed it over to Dudly right in the nick of time before the match began to make it even better.

A great night calls for a great Gazette, and I believe we made that happen yet again.